How to become a certified coach? Understanding ICF Credential Requirements and Updated Application Paths
By Lucia Baldelli
How to become a certified coach? If you are an aspiring coach embarking on the journey of ICF certification programs, you might find it confusing to figure out the differences between the different credentials and the requirements for each certification.
I vividly recall my own experience when I decided to pursue the ICF certification path. Navigating through the various credentials and understanding the prerequisites was a challenge, even more so now that ICF has introduced new certification paths, making it harder to differentiate between the old and the new.
In this article, I aim to unpack the requirements and highlight the differences between the different levels of ICF credentials and paths, to help you decide which is most suitable for you and how to choose the right program.
Whether you are taking your first steps towards an ACC, PCC or MCC credential, this guide was made to support you in making informed choices in your professional journey. Let’s demystify the process together, so that you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
What is an ICF Credential?
In the coaching world, the International Coach Federation (ICF) is known as the top authority, representing the highest standard in our profession. However, the process to get ICF accreditation can be quite complex for many coaches.
Many of our students are confused between the terms, acronyms, and a variety of detailed requirements and pathways. To make it easier, let’s first explain the basic terms: credentials, requirements, and paths.
Let’s start from the basics: what is an ICF Credential? According to ICF itself:
“An ICF Credential is a professional certification indicating that you have met specific standards and requirements designed to develop and refine your coaching skills“.
Holding an ICF credential is paramount to increasing your credibility as a coach.
ICF distinguishes three credentials, each with specific coach training and experience requirements:
- Associate Certified Coach (ACC) – Completed 60 hours of coach-specific education and 100 hours of client coaching experience
- Professional Certified Coach (PCC) – Completed 125 hours of coach-specific education and 500 hours of client coaching experience
- Master Certified Coach (MCC) – Hold or have held a PCC Credential, completed 200 hours of coach-specific education and 2,500 hours of client coaching experience.
What are the requirements to earn an ICF credential?
To apply for any of the ICF credentials, a coach must complete:
- 10 hours of mentor coaching (7 group and 3 individual);
- The requisite amount of relevant coaching experience;
- The payment of a fee;
- Passing an online test, the new ICF credentialing exam, which assesses knowledge on the ICF Core Competencies, the ICF Code of Ethics, and the ICF Definition of Coaching.
There are different application paths to these ICF credentials and understanding them is essential. They are the blueprints we follow to achieve our professional aspirations. These paths are in transition, as ICF moves towards new structures designed to better accommodate our evolving field.
It’s important to know the options available to prepare thoroughly and get maximum benefit from training. Let us explore these paths in detail in the following paragraphs. You are also invited to join our next free session on ICF credentials and ask your questions to our ICF credentialed coaches!
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Updated ICF Credential Application Paths
The International Coaching Federation has streamlined its educational framework to create a more intuitive progression of coaching expertise. The historical ACSTH and ACTP designations have been retired and replaced by three distinct training levels. These levels align directly with specific credentials, helping coaches choose the correct education programme for their career goals.
The active pathways are structured as follows:
- Level 1 Path: This foundational programme requires 60 or more coach specific training hours and ten hours of mentor coaching. It is designed specifically to prepare candidates for the Associate Certified Coach (ACC) credential. Level 1 training organisations are authorised to evaluate performance only at the ACC level.
- Level 2 Path: This comprehensive programme requires 125 or more coach specific training hours and ten hours of mentor coaching. It is designed specifically to prepare candidates for the Professional Certified Coach (PCC) credential. Level 2 training organisations assess performance up to the PCC level.
- Level 3 Path: This advanced programme requires seventy five or more advanced training hours and ten hours of mentor coaching. It is designed exclusively for coaches who already hold an active PCC credential and wish to prepare for the Master Certified Coach (MCC) level.
It is important to note that the Level 1 Path is not a current or direct route to obtaining the PCC credential. Level 1 training is strictly dedicated to the ACC. If you wish to achieve the PCC credential, you must complete either a comprehensive Level 2 programme or apply via the Portfolio Path, which allows you to combine various coaching courses.
A Legacy Note for ACTP and ACSTH Certificate Holders
If you completed your coach education under the older framework, your training hours remain valid and are fully recognised by the ICF. However, you must align them with the current application pathways:
- If you hold an ACTP certificate: This is equivalent to a Level 2 qualification. You can apply for your PCC through the streamlined Level 2 process, meaning your training provider evaluates your performance internally.
- If you hold an ACSTH certificate: Your training hours remain valid, but they do not automatically qualify you for a direct pathway. To apply for the PCC, you must submit your application via the Portfolio Path and submit your recordings to the ICF for external evaluation.
ICF ACC Credential (Associate Certified Coach)
The Associate Certified Coach (ACC) credential is the first step in ICF certification. It shows that you understand the ICF’s Code of Ethics and can use the ICF’s core skills to help clients reach their goals.
As the initial level of certification, it shows your commitment to the coaching profession and your effort to develop your coaching skills to meet global standards: it is suitable for life coaches, business coaches, facilitators, leadership coaches, managers and anyone who works on other people’s development.
For those seeking to attain this credential, the ACC paths are clear-cut and designed to accommodate various learning styles and professional backgrounds.
The ACC paths include:
- Level 1 Path: For those who have completed foundational coach training.
- Level 2 Path: A step up for those seeking a deeper dive into coaching practice.
- Portfolio Path: An option for seasoned practitioners with diverse learning experiences.
Each path offers a structured journey toward achieving the ACC credential, ensuring that every coach has access to a route that aligns with their unique professional narrative and aspirations.
ACC Requirements and Eligibility
Here are the essential requirements for becoming an Associate Certified Coach (ACC):
- A minimum of 60 hours of coach-specific education through a Level 1 or Level 2 program or an Accredited Coach Training Program (ACTP) that includes a comprehensive final assessment.
- Alternatively, these hours may be accrued through partial completion of an ACTP or by completing Accredited Coach Specific Training Hours (ACSTH) program(s).
- Another viable route is accumulating 60 hours of coach-specific education that may include Continuing Coach Education (CCE) program(s) or training from non-ICF accredited program(s), ensuring that the content aligns with ICF core competencies.
- A practice requirement of over 100 hours coaching clients, with at least 8 different clients. Of these, a minimum of 75 hours must be paid coaching sessions. Importantly, at least 25 of these hours, whether paid or unpaid, must be completed within the 18 months preceding your credential application.
For those who have not completed a Level 1, Level 2, or ACTP program, additional prerequisites apply:
- Engaging in at least 10 hours of mentor coaching with a PCC or MCC credentialed coach. This mentorship should span over a period of at least three months, with a minimum of three hours being one-on-one coaching sessions.
- Submission of an ACC level coaching session recording ranging from 20 minutes to one hour in length, accompanied by a transcript for review.
Associate Certified Coach (ACC) Paths
The path to achieving an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) designation is not a one-size-fits-all journey. Rather, it’s a multifaceted route that accommodates various levels of education and experience. Let’s explore the different pathways that are specifically tailored for ACC aspirants.
- Level 1 or Level 2 Path: Previously known as the Accredited Coach Training Program (ACTP), this comprehensive route is ideal for coaches who have completed an entire ICF-accredited program. It includes training, mentor coaching, and a final assessment to ensure competency. The Level 1 path is for ACC, while Level 2 can be for ACC or PCC.
- Partial Level 1 or Level 2 Pathway: Suitable for those who have started their coaching education but haven’t completed a full ACTP. Formerly recognized as Accredited Coach Specific Training Hours (ACSTH), this path is perfect for coaches who have gathered training hours through various ICF-accredited programs but haven’t gone through the entire ACTP curriculum.
- Portfolio Path: This alternative is for experienced coaches who may have acquired their education and experience outside of ICF-accredited programs. It involves demonstrating coaching competency through a detailed portfolio submission, including recorded coaching sessions and other documents that reflect adherence to ICF standards.
Each of these paths is designed with flexibility in mind, allowing coaches at different stages of their professional development to find a route that best aligns with their educational background and coaching experience. It’s about providing options that honor where each coach is on their journey while upholding the rigorous standards set by the ICF.
Level 1 / Level 2 / ACTP Path
The Level 1, Level 2, or ACTP path represents the most streamlined and direct approach to obtaining your ICF credentials. This pathway is particularly suitable for those who prefer a structured and comprehensive program that leads them through every step of the credentialing process.
Here’s what it entails:
- Completion of an ICF-accredited Level 1 or Level 2 program, or a full ACTP, which includes a final assessment to validate your coaching competency.
- The accredited organisation where you completed your training will manage much of the application process, including the evaluation of your coaching recordings.
- The time frame for these programs can vary, but I often recommend those that span 4 to 6 months, as they provide ample opportunity for practice and skill refinement.
When to choose this path:
- You value a structured approach with guidance and oversight from an accredited institution.
- You are looking for a clear and direct route to credentialing with minimal administrative burden on your part.
- You prefer a program that offers a balance between education duration and practical experience.
Required documentation typically includes:
- Proof of completion of the respective Level 1 or Level 2 program or ACTP.
- Recorded coaching sessions as required by the program for final assessment.
- Any additional documents specified by the training organisation.
Regarding costs, prices for these programs can vary significantly. Some may offer different rates for ICF members versus non-members. It’s essential to factor in not just the financial investment but also the value you receive in terms of quality training and support throughout the certification process.
ACSTH Path
The ACSTH path, which stands for Approved Coach Specific Training Hours, was once a popular route for coaches seeking ICF credentials. It is recognized as a more flexible option that allows aspiring coaches to accumulate training hours across different programs and institutions. However, it’s important to note that while ICF will continue to accept ACSTH certificates issued before June 28, 2023, the official designation has been retired as of that date.
Key aspects of the ACSTH path include:
- Accumulation of coach-specific training hours from various ICF-approved providers.
- Flexibility to tailor your education according to your specific interests and needs within coaching.
When considering the ACSTH path, keep in mind:
- It may be more costly due to the piecemeal nature of accruing hours.
- The path can be more complex, requiring you to manage your own educational journey across different programs.
Requirements for this path generally consist of:
- Completion of a certain number of coach-specific training hours from approved providers.
- Submission of recorded coaching sessions for evaluation.
- Mentor coaching hours as stipulated by the ICF.
Required documentation typically includes:
- Certificates proving completion of coach-specific training hours.
- Logs of completed coaching hours and mentor coaching sessions.
For those who embarked on this path before its retirement, you may find the process more involved compared to the Level 1/Level 2 or ACTP paths. However, it also offers a degree of customization that many coaches found appealing. As with any significant professional development investment, it’s advisable to weigh the costs—both financial and in terms of time—against the potential benefits and opportunities that come with holding an ICF credential.
Portfolio Path
The Portfolio Path remains a steadfast avenue for coaches who seek ICF credentials but may not have had access to formal ICF-accredited coach training programs. It is often considered the most challenging and intricate path, as it requires a substantial commitment to both self-directed learning and the gathering of comprehensive documentation.
Here are the essential components of the Portfolio Path:
- A robust compilation of various coach-specific training hours, which may not necessarily be ICF-accredited.
- A demonstration of coaching competency through recorded sessions and detailed self-reflection.
- Submission of a comprehensive portfolio that showcases your coaching journey and proficiency.
Choosing the Portfolio Path is often best suited for:
- Experienced coaches who have accumulated diverse training and experiences outside of ICF-accredited programs.
- Individuals who prefer to design their own learning path or have unique educational backgrounds in coaching.
The requirements for this path typically include:
- Completion of a minimum number of coach-specific training hours.
- A log of client coaching hours meeting ICF standards.
- Recorded coaching sessions for evaluation.
- Mentor coaching hours as required by ICF standards.
Documentation required for the Portfolio Path generally encompasses:
- Evidence of completed coach-specific training.
- Logs verifying client coaching hours and mentor sessions.
- Recordings of coaching sessions that demonstrate your coaching competencies.
Regarding costs, the Portfolio Path is recognized as the most expensive due to its extensive requirements and potential need for additional resources to meet ICF criteria. The evaluation time can also be longer given the detailed review needed for your submitted portfolio. For both members and non-members, it’s prudent to consider these factors when deciding if this path aligns with your professional development goals and available resources.
ICF PCC Credential (Professional Certified Coach)
The PCC is the mid level credential offered by the ICF, representing a major milestone in a practitioner’s professional journey. It is designed for experienced coaches who have moved beyond foundational coaching techniques and have integrated their skills into a stable, fluent presence. This credential is highly valued by corporate clients and organisations worldwide.
Primary Target Audience
Established coaches looking to solidify their professional standing, work with corporate clients, and demonstrate deep partner focused coaching.
Summary of PCC Requirements
To qualify for your PCC credential, you must satisfy several core benchmarks:
- Coach training: At least 125 hours of coach specific education.
- Coaching experience: At least 500 hours of client coaching.
- Paid sessions: At least 450 hours must be fully paid.
- Client diversity: A minimum of 25 different clients.
- Mentor coaching: 10 hours of mentor coaching conducted over at least 3 months, including at least 3 individual hours.
- Assessments: Successful completion of the Performance Evaluation and the official ICF Credentialing Exam.
Application Pathways
There are 2 primary pathways to obtain the PCC: the Level 2 Path (the most streamlined route for graduates of accredited programmes) and the Portfolio Path (for coaches combining accredited and non accredited education). Legacy pathways such as ACTP and ACSTH have been retired and must be mapped to current application processes.
For a complete breakdown of education, coaching experience, Mentor Coaching, application paths and required documents, read our guide to the ICF PCC requirements.
ICF MCC Credential (Master Certified Coach)
The ICF Master Certified Coach (MCC) credential is the highest level of achievement in the coaching profession, symbolizing the greatest expertise and commitment. It’s for advanced coaches who have deeply committed to their craft, showing expertise and mastery that few achieve.
The MCC path is suitable for experienced coaches who have already proven their skills at the PCC level and want to further improve and elevate their coaching practice. It’s ideal for those who have refined their coaching abilities and aim to make a significant impact in the profession, like mentoring other coaches or contributing to the field through thought leadership.
The paths to achieving an MCC credential are as follows:
- Completion of 200 hours of advanced coach-specific training beyond the PCC level.
- Accumulation of 2,500 hours of client coaching experience, with at least 35 clients.
- Current or past possession of a PCC Credential.
- Undertaking an additional 10 hours of mentor coaching.
- Successful completion of the MCC performance evaluation, which includes an audio recording and written transcript of a coaching session.
The MCC journey is not merely about accumulating hours or fulfilling requirements; it is a transformative process that shapes one into a coach of the highest caliber, recognized globally for their expertise and leadership in the field.
MCC Requirements and Eligibility
To be eligible for the MCC, here’s what you need:
- Hold an active Professional Certified Coach (PCC) credential, evidencing prior accomplishment and recognition in the coaching field.
- Engage in a Level 3 program, which is an advanced coach training program that aligns with ICF standards and goes beyond the foundational and intermediate levels of coaching education.
- Accumulate over 200 hours of coach-specific education. This can include a variety of advanced training courses that focus on enhancing coaching skills, deepening understanding of coaching methodologies, and exploring new dimensions of coaching practice.
Each educational experience contributes to a coach’s development, offering insights and techniques that will be reflected in their coaching sessions. Achieving an MCC is not just about meeting these requirements; it’s about embodying the spirit of continuous learning and growth that defines the very best in our profession.
Master Certified Coach (MCC) Paths
To reach the Master Certified Coach (MCC) level, it’s important to know the different paths that lead to this top coaching achievement. These paths acknowledge the extensive experience and learning of a coach. To start this journey, you must choose from the following options:
- Completion of a Level 3 or full Advanced Coach Training Program (ACTP) recognized by ICF, which provides comprehensive training and education aligned with the highest ICF standards.
- Alternatively, a minimum of 200 hours of coach-specific education is required for those who have not completed a Level 3 program but have engaged in various advanced training opportunities.
In addition to these educational foundations, practical coaching experience is paramount:
- Over 2,500 hours of coaching, with at least 35 clients. A significant portion of this experience, specifically 2,250 hours, must be remunerated, reflecting the professional nature of the services provided.
For those on the path that does not include a Level 3 program, further requirements are in place:
- Engage in at least 10 hours of mentor coaching with an MCC credentialed coach. This mentorship must span at least three months and include a minimum of three hours one-on-one. Importantly, these mentor hours are distinct and cannot overlap with any mentor hours used for previous credentials.
- Submission of two recorded coaching sessions accompanied by transcripts is also essential to demonstrate the candidate’s coaching competency.
These paths are thoughtfully crafted to ensure that MCC candidates have not only received rigorous education but have also applied their skills extensively and effectively in their coaching practice. The journey to MCC is one marked by dedication to craft and an unwavering commitment to excellence in coaching.
Level 3 Path
The introduction of Level 3 as a distinct path to the Master Certified Coach (MCC) credential is a testament to the evolution and refinement of coaching standards. This advanced program is exclusively available to those who have already attained the Professional Certified Coach (PCC) level, marking it as a progressive step in a coach’s professional development. Here is how the Level 3 path unfolds:
- A specialised program consisting of 75 hours of advanced training, Level 3 is designed to deepen a PCC-level coach’s expertise and prepare them for the elite MCC status.
- The curriculum of this program is tailored to enhance mastery in coaching and expand upon the core competencies established at previous levels.
When considering whether the Level 3 path is the right choice for you, it’s important to evaluate:
- Your commitment to achieving the highest standard of coaching proficiency.
- Your readiness to engage in an intensive learning process that builds upon your existing PCC foundation.
The documentation required for this path includes evidence of completed training hours and a record of your coaching experience. Additionally, prospective candidates should be prepared to submit:
- Proof of current PCC credential status.
- Verification of completion of the 75-hour Level 3 program.
For those considering this path, it’s also valuable to note:
- The investment required for this program varies for ICF members and non-members, reflecting the value placed on continued professional growth within the ICF community.
- The evaluation time for this path is meticulously structured to ensure a thorough assessment of each candidate’s qualifications.
Choosing the Level 3 path signifies a commitment to excellence and a desire to stand at the forefront of the coaching profession. It’s an investment in one’s future as a coach, signifying not just an accumulation of hours, but a dedication to the craft that distinguishes MCCs as leaders in our field.
Portfolio Path
The Portfolio Path offers a flexible route to ICF credentials for those who have pursued their coaching education through various avenues, including non-accredited programs. This path is particularly suited for coaches who have amassed a wealth of knowledge through different educational experiences and are now seeking formal recognition from the ICF. Here’s what the Portfolio Path entails:
- Coaches can apply using a Level 2 credential with over 200 hours of coach-specific education, or they can compile hours from one or more non-accredited programs.
- This path requires a demonstration of a broad and comprehensive understanding of coaching principles, acquired from multiple sources.
When is the Portfolio Path your best option?
- If you have a diverse educational background in coaching that doesn’t fit neatly into a single accredited program.
- When you’re seeking to leverage a wide range of learning experiences to fulfil the ICF’s credentialing requirements.
The documentation necessary for this path includes:
- Detailed records of all coach-specific education hours.
- Proof of completion for each educational program, accredited or otherwise.
Valuable information for candidates considering the Portfolio Path includes:
- The cost of application varies for ICF members and non-members, with members enjoying preferential rates.
- The evaluation time for this path is designed to comprehensively assess the diverse educational experiences of each applicant.
The Portfolio Path acknowledges that learning and growth often occur outside conventional structures. It’s a pathway that honours the eclectic educational journeys we coaches undertake, offering a way to bring together our collective experiences under the esteemed umbrella of an ICF credential.
Conclusion
As we conclude our overview of ICF credential paths, it’s clear that each route offers unique benefits and factors to consider. Choosing a path is more than just a decision; it’s a strategic move to align your coaching career with your professional goals and educational background.
The ACC, PCC, and MCC paths each serve different stages of a coach’s development, from the foundational level to the pinnacle of coaching mastery:
- The Level 1 / Level 2 / ACTP Path is ideal for those who prefer a structured learning environment with the support of an accredited program.
- The ACSTH Path offers flexibility for those who may want to build their education incrementally or combine various training sources.
- The Portfolio Path is tailor-made for coaches who have a rich tapestry of non-accredited learning experiences and seek to weave them into an ICF credential.
In choosing your path, weigh the pros and cons:
- Consider the time commitment and financial investment required for each path.
- Reflect on how each path aligns with your current coaching practice and future goals.
- Think about the learning style that best suits you—structured programs or a more self-directed approach.
Ultimately, the most valuable advice is to choose the path that resonates with your personal coaching narrative—one that will not only meet the ICF’s stringent requirements but will also enrich your unique coaching identity and practice.
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